Mission Christmas Dinner

More than a few years ago a man named Jim Clites started a ministry serving the homeless and the poor of Antioch and east Contra Costa County. He came to call them simply his friends, and to them he became simply Pastor Jim. One of the events he dreamed of and eventually planned was a Christmas party for folks who never had one. The first one was put on for a handful of his friends with the help of a few volunteers, but that was only the beginning. Over the years the event has grown to the point that it is now held at the Fair Grounds the first Saturday in December, and 200 or more volunteers from a dozen or more churches throw a huge dinner and party for approaching 1000 friends.

Last year we at Eastside were marginally involved for the first time by providing some Bibles and some cash for food. This year we rolled up our sleeves and jumped right in. In addition to Bibles and cash, our members contributed a bunch of toys to be given to the kids, cooked turkeys, and served as the cleanup crew after the event wound down this afternoon. Some of our folks even spent the day and helped out in a variety of ways.

It was a great day with lots of food and music and presents for kids and adults... and even a raffle for some big gifts. I'll never forget the faces of the kids whose tickets won the bikes!

Dee, the energy-filled lady who is the main organizer and communicator for Mission Christmas throughout the year, sent a thank you email to all the volunteers this afternoon. Here's a quote:

I heard that one gal who won the basket of towels and bathroom things was so thrilled because she lives in a tent and needed all of the items. She even said the hair dryer was great to use at a place where she showers and cleans up. I am so thankful she won that prize and to see her face.

This is one of those times when it's not important what our theology is or where we stand on any of a variety of issues. This is one of those times when it's important to just act like Jesus. I'm so proud of our Eastside volunteers... can't wait until next year!!